What is the Alumni & Friends Merit Award?

A merit-based tuition waiver for study in the Barcelona GSE Master's programs

Awarded annually beginning in the 2020-21 academic year

Contributors can participate in the selection of the recipient

Barcelona GSE will match the amount donated

Each year, the Barcelona GSE awards around 800,000€ in merit-based financial aid to Master's students. On average, 36% of matriculated students in the cohort receive full or partial financial aid. This funding comes from generous public and private sponsors and from the Barcelona GSE's own funds.

There are many talented candidates who are offered a seat in the Master's but do not get a financial aid offer, because all funds have already been allocated to other students. The Barcelona GSE Alumni & Friends Merit Award is one of many initiatives we are working on to bridge this gap and offer funding to as many talented candidates as possible.

In Spain, donations to the Barcelona Graduate School of Economics qualify for tax deductions under article 16 of Law 49/2002, of 23 December, on the tax regime for non-profit organizations and tax incentives for patronage.

Donations may be tax-deductible in other countries. All donors will receive a receipt that can be used for tax purposes.

Selection of the Merit Award recipient

The Merit Award is the first initiative that will allow Barcelona GSE Alumni and other members of our community to play a role in shaping the next cohort of Master's students. Every direct donor will have the opportunity to volunteer to be part of the Merit Award selection committee.

When accepting the award, the recipient will have some obligations to the Barcelona GSE community, including a requirement to provide occasional updates to Merit Award donors regarding his/her progress in the Master's program.

Thank you to all Alumni & Friends Merit Award donors!

Why do alumni give to the Merit Award?

"For anyone who found studying at the Barcelona GSE a valuable experience, the new Merit Award is an excellent way to give that same opportunity to others. Now Alumni can actively contribute in the selection and support of incoming talent in our community. I am delighted that the Barcelona GSE has made this happen!"

"Great way to attract smart students!"

"The Merit Award is a great initiative! I would not have chosen Barcelona GSE if I did not receive some sort of funding or scholarship. Great way to attract smart students! :) I fully support the initiative."